IFSTA Incident Command Systems

Question 1

What is the maximum recommended span of control for a supervisor within the Incident Command System (ICS)?

Accepted Answer

3 to 7 subordinates

Answer

NIMS/ICS guidelines recommend a span of control between 3 and 7 subordinates per supervisor, with 5 being the optimal number.

Question 2

Which ICS function is responsible for collecting, evaluating, and disseminating information about the incident?

Accepted Answer

Planning Section

Answer

The Planning Section is responsible for collecting, evaluating, and disseminating incident situation information and intelligence to the Incident Commander.

Question 3

In ICS, who has overall authority and responsibility for managing an incident?

Accepted Answer

Incident Commander

Answer

The Incident Commander (IC) has overall authority and responsibility for managing all aspects of an incident.

Question 4

What ICS tool is used to document the objectives, tactics, and assignments for each operational period?

Accepted Answer

Incident Action Plan (IAP)

Answer

The Incident Action Plan (IAP) documents objectives, strategies, tactics, and resource assignments for each operational period.

Question 5

Which ICS principle ensures that every individual has only one designated supervisor?

Accepted Answer

Unity of command

Answer

Unity of command means each person in the ICS organization reports to only one designated supervisor, reducing confusion.

(IFSTA) International Fire Service Training Association Practice Test

(IFSTA) International Fire Service Training Association Practice Test

IFSTA Incident Command Systems